The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) announced that CEO Dr Leila Fourie will retire in March 2026, with Valdene Reddy set to succeed her from April 2026.
- Dr Leila Fourie will retire as JSE Group CEO on 31 March 2026 after a seven-year tenure.
- Currently Director of Capital Markets, Valdene Reddy will succeed her as Group CEO effective 1 April 2026.
- Valdene Reddy aims to accelerate innovation, strengthen competitiveness, and drive strategic growth for the JSE’s next chapter.
- Visit www.sandtontimes.co.za for more stories.
The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) has announced a leadership transition. After seven years at the helm, Dr Leila Fourie will retire as Group Chief Executive Officer on 31 March 2026, marking the end of an era for South Africa’s foremost exchange. The JSE’s Board of Directors has confirmed the appointment of Valdene Reddy, currently Director of Capital Markets, as Group CEO effective 1 April 2026.
Transformative Leadership
Since her appointment in 2019, having taken over from Nicky Newton-King, Dr Leila Fourie has guided the JSE through a period defined by innovation, resilience, and inclusive leadership. Under her stewardship, the exchange not only navigated unprecedented global and domestic challenges but also achieved a turnaround in earnings quality, diversified its revenue base, and modernised its technology and regulatory frameworks.
Her leadership extended far beyond financial results. Dr Leila Fourie has been widely credited with instilling a sense of purpose, inclusion, and sustainability within the institution. Her focus on regulatory excellence, corporate transformation, and market innovation has left a lasting mark on South Africa’s capital markets.
Leila has led the JSE with strategic clarity and an unwavering commitment to transformation. Her tenure has been marked by innovation, operational resilience and a deep sense of purpose. Under her leadership, the JSE has delivered a robust financial performance and has become a more inclusive, collegiate and future-fit institution.
// JSE Board Chairman, Phuthuma Nhleko
Strengthening South Africa’s Capital Markets
The JSE has long stood as a cornerstone of South Africa’s financial system – a trusted marketplace that connects investors and businesses, fuels growth, and supports national development. With a 137-year history, the JSE today ranks among the Top 20 largest stock exchanges in the world by market capitalisation and remains the largest exchange in Africa. The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) relocated to its modern headquarters in Sandton in September 2000, marking a new chapter in its history. For 113 years prior, the exchange operated from 17 Diagonal Street in central Johannesburg. Today, the JSE operates at One Exchange Square, on the corner of Gwen Lane and Maude Street – a fitting address in South Africa’s financial heartland.
Under Dr Leila Fourie’s guidance, the JSE has significantly expanded this platform. Her tenure saw a series of structural and regulatory innovations designed to position the JSE as a preferred venue for diversified capital formation.
It has been a privilege to lead the JSE, a national institution that plays such a critical role in directing capital towards growth and opportunity across our economy. I have sought to channel that purpose and sense of stewardship during my tenure. I am indebted to my executive team and all our staff for their commitment to the JSE’s success and for their contributions to building better markets. Leading an institution like the JSE provides a unique platform to contribute to our national agenda and the positioning of South Africa’s capital markets on the global stage. Having served as Group CEO since 2019, I feel the time is appropriate to pass the baton to Valdene as one of our own talents to step forward into this important leadership role.
// Outgoing JSE Group CEO, Dr Leila Fourie
Under Dr Leila Fourie’s leadership, the JSE has aimed to evolve into a more agile, inclusive, and globally competitive institution. Her commitment to transformation, both in terms of culture and capability, has looked to position the JSE to thrive in an era defined by digital acceleration, sustainability imperatives, and cross-border competition.
On behalf of the Board, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to Leila for her exceptional stewardship and the enduring legacy she leaves behind.
// JSE Board Chairman, Phuthuma Nhleko
Welcoming Valdene Reddy: A New Chapter Begins
As the JSE looks ahead, the appointment of Valdene Reddy indicates both continuity and renewal. Currently serving as Director of Capital Markets, Valdene Reddy has been a central figure in shaping the JSE’s product strategy, driving innovation, and deepening engagement with issuers, investors, and regulators.
Her elevation to Group CEO demonstrates both her strategic acumen and her deep understanding of the exchange’s inner workings. I am confident that Valdene’s deep industry expertise, strategic acumen, and stakeholder relationships will position the JSE for continued success in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. The Board is looking forward to working with Valdene to deliver transformative growth for the JSE.
// JSE Board Chairman, Phuthuma Nhleko
In her first remarks following the announcement, Valdene Reddy expressed both pride and purpose.
It is an honour to be appointed as Group CEO, and I am delighted to lead this institution into its next chapter. My focus will be on accelerating innovation and enhancing our competitiveness through ongoing strategic transformation. I look forward to working with our talented team and valued partners to unlock new opportunities for growth and impact.
// JSE Director of Capital Markets, Valdene Reddy
As the JSE prepares for the handover from Dr Leila Fourie to Valdene Reddy, it continues to hold its position as one of the world’s most dynamic exchanges.
Stand a chance to WIN with The Sandton Times.
Advertise on The Sandton Times today!
Head back to The Sandton Times Home Page for more stories.
